We could all name a British Prime Minister, an England Manager or CEO who, despite elevation based on a track record of success, actually performed best in their previous role; an extremely accomplished manager, but found wanting and exposed at the summit of their profession.
The Key to Senior Appointment Success
The missing ingredient – leadership. That particular quality that is able to bring together people of different viewpoints, personalities and competing interests into a team that is able to focus on common objectives. A quality that brings a vision, its narrative and effective communication, and that inspires trust and confidence in the future.
Specialised Roles
As professional roles become ever narrower in their technical requirements, and the focus on specific skills intensifies, there is an increased risk that the need for leadership qualities gets forgotten in the hiring process.
Paradoxically as jobs become more knowledge based and flexible, with variation of tasks increasing and with less uniform controls, the need for leadership goes deeper within the operation.
Most supply chains are in a constant state of change: Seasonality, growth, product ranges, systems improvements and new channels all place huge burdens on workforces and their management - many of whom have been working with standardised processes and practices for years.
Leadership Qualities
The ability to lead modern supply chains through these changes takes genuine leadership. The rationale for change; the plan and ‘journey’ all need to be understood and ruthlessly executed. Inspiring through the merits of the change takes the presentation of a vision and its sound communication.
You may well just be looking for competent administration, a focus on systems or structure, or some level of control. But perhaps there is a need for change or innovation, a requirement to take peoples’ behaviours, thinking or focus somewhere new. Then, as well as making sure they know their WMS and pick rates, they probably also need to be a leader.
Your Executive Leader Solution
Our EXECUTIVE SEARCH & SELECTION RECRUITMENT service has a proven TRACK RECORD in delivering qualified candidate shortlists with suitable skills, experience and leadership abilities for the role. Call us on 01327 220862 to speak to one of our recruitment consultants or CONTACT US WITH YOUR LOGISTICS & SUPPLY CHAIN RECRUITMENT NEEDS